Inspired by the Git 'N Go Marquee

"A number two pencil and a dream can take you anywhere."

I am sure that these few words, seen scrawled across a series of marquees parked in front of the Git 'N Go gas stations around town, mean something different to each passer-by. To a mother missing her son away at college, to a girlfriend who's new love has shipped off to Afghanistan, to a fifth grader trying to improve her grades . . . these words inspire!

For me, an aspiring writer? These words are what I live by! Why else would I toil at my computer every day off or every lunch break at work? Why else would I spend years - yes, years - BLEEDING over a never ending edit? Why else would I even care, if it weren't for the dream?

My number two pencil is a Toshiba laptop, bedecked with shiny, silver flowers and swirly medallions . . . and, although I cannot tuck it in my pocket or behind my ear, I take it wherever I go. Why wouldn't I? It carries my dream.

As for the source of my dream, I find inspiration everywhere - in a name, in a conversation, even in a meal. I call them my signs, maps that lead me forward and tell me that I am making the right decision to pursue my dream. I just had no idea that I'd find inspiration in the same place my husband finds his favorite chili dog.